Federalists vs Republicans

Alexander Hamilton was the leader of the Federalists while Thomas Jefferson was the leader of the Republicans. The Federalists believed in a strong central government and a loose interpretation of the Constitution. Federalists were well-educated and they considered themselves to be the elite ruling class or the “enlightened few.” They favored the wealthy and supported manufacturing and international trade. The Republicans on the other hand believed in a weaker central government and a strict interpretation of the Constitution. They supported agriculture because that way, they could themselves and purchase goods from Europe. To them, all people could govern if they were properly educated and people would put aside their selfishness for the good of everyone. The Republicans gained National office and excised taxes and tariffs.